Fetch, fun and furry friends await at Yappy Hour
Published:Saturday | September 20, 2025 | 12:07 AM
Dog-lovers and their fur babies can gear up for a day of fun and play as Happy Tails presents its third staging of Yappy Hour & Dog Park Pop-Up on Sunday, September 28. Set against the backdrop of the Jamaica Horticultural Society Grounds in Hope Pastures, St Andrew, the doggie social, running from 1 to 6 p.m., promises an afternoon of treats, games, cocktails, and community.
Teaming up again with Tito’s Vodka (CPJ), a dog-advocated brand, the event is an “opportunity for dogs to step outside their yards and meet new furry friends while engaging in structured play and activities”.
Speaking with Saturday Living ahead of the event, Melissa Esliger and her daughter Milena, the mother-daughter duo behind Happy Tails, shared how Yappy Hour came alive. “We actually started Yappy Hour while brainstorming new ideas to bring Jamaica’s dog-loving community together. [We wanted to create] an event that promotes a more dog-friendly culture in Jamaica– one where dog-owners can feel comfortable bringing their dogs out for fun, safe social interaction,” Milena said, adding, “We approached Tito’s Vodka (CPJ) to partner with us. They believed it was a wonderful opportunity to give back to the dog community, [as] part proceeds go to local shelters.”
With few places or events in Jamaica offering the chance to spend a day out with their dogs, seeing pet-owners enjoy themselves and meet fellow dog-lovers is what makes Yappy Hour both unique and memorable.
“Yappy Hour is an event the pet community looks forward to, it uplifts the culture of responsible pet ownership, supports shelters and it’s a place to connect with other members and service providers, [while] enjoy[ing] a family-friendly day out with dogs,” Melissa added.
Attendees can expect a day buzzing with energy, from scavenger hunts and games to guest presentations and dog-themed cocktails courtesy of Tito’s Vodka. The dog park also promises to be a hub of excitement. Another special highlight of the day is the costume contest, which encourages full creativity from both children and pups. “The contest will be judged on which child and doggy are best dressed as a character or theme of choice,” Milena said.
For first-timers, the Esligers recommend packing the essentials: a leash (which all dogs should wear), water and bowl for your pup, poop bags, sunscreen, a chair or blanket, and plenty of good energy to enjoy the day.
True Pet Foods is another major sponsor, hosting the dog park pop-up and providing a safe space for dogs to explore agility setups and interactive games.
“We share a mutual goal to bring dog people together. Our partnership has allowed us to reach a wider audience and offer entertainment while highlighting nutrition, wellness and activity. Our partnership is very important to us as we have a shared mission to give dogs the best quality of life possible,” said Melissa.
Tickets for the event can be purchased online at www.lovehappytails.co, through Happy Tails’ Instagram ( @welovehappytails), or at the gate.